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Alençon is the capital of the Orne department and lies on the southern edge of Normandy. It was once very famous for its lace and was therefore known throughout Europe. There is evidence of the existence of the city of Alençon as early as Roman times. In the 11th century, when the Normans secured their duchy to the south, the first fortified settlement was built here. This was later followed by the construction of a mighty castle. The city really achieved economic prosperity around 1650 when Madame La Perrère invented an original lace. It was in no way inferior to the Venetian lace known at the time, but it was considerably cheaper to buy. With the support of Jean-Baptiste Colbert, a royal factory was founded. As a result, more than 8,000 people worked in lace production. The "Point d'Alençon" lace was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2010.

Great building, the church organ is in silver and makes an impression. Beautiful play of light through the windows

The patronage of this church in Alencon, "Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption," refers to one of the many memorial days or feast days in honor of the Mother of God Mary. This dates back to the feast of her bodily assumption into heaven. The (Catholic) church celebrates this feast every year on August 15th. In Orthodox churches, the feast is called the "Dormition of the Virgin Mary." In rural areas with a predominantly Catholic population, it used to be customary for the population to collect bundles of herbs on this special day and to bless them in a festive service. In isolated cases, this old custom has survived to the present day.

Attractive building by the lake

There has been a church on this site since the 12th century, but the basilica you see in front of you was built in 1900. From the streets of Mayenne the church dominates and is very impressive.

This castle was built in the 10th century. Half a century later, the castle became a garrison castle. 400 years later, it served as a prison in the 18th century. In the middle of town, the castle gardens are worth wandering through for a quiet moment.

This hall created for the grain trade between the end of the 18th and the beginning of the 19th century has multiplied roles during its history: hospital during the First World War; host of exhibitions, fairs and markets; and today a center dedicated to new technologies and headquarters of the Cité des Métiers de l'Orne. It is distinguished by its large glass dome inspired by that of the old corn exchange in Paris.

A former 12th century fortified castle, the fortress was gradually destroyed from the 16th century, before being transformed into a prison during the French Revolution. Today, only three towers remain, the gatehouse and the main body. The old courtyards have been requalified to make the current Simone Veil park.